Chapter 24: Problem 35
A distant galaxy emits light that has a wavelength of \(434.1 \mathrm{nm}\). On earth, the wavelength of this light is measured to be \(438.6 \mathrm{nm} .\) (a) Decide whether this galaxy is approaching or receding from the earth. Give your reasoning. (b) Find the speed of the galaxy relative to the earth.
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understand Redshift and Blueshift
Determine Galaxy Movement
Calculate Redshift (z)
Compute the Speed of the Galaxy
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Blueshift
- The opposite of blueshift is redshift, where wavelengths become longer as an object moves away, shifting towards the red end of the spectrum.
- The shift is simply nature's way of telling us about movement, allowing astronomers to make important observations about the universe.
Hubble's Law
The law is expressed mathematically as \( v = H_0d \), where \( v \) is the velocity of the galaxy, \( H_0 \) is the Hubble constant, and \( d \) is the distance to the galaxy.
- Hubble's Law was among the first evidence supporting the Big Bang theory, suggesting that the universe is expanding.
- It also implies that, in the past, the universe was smaller and denser, providing a framework for the cosmic timeline.
Doppler Effect
For light, this results in blueshift (approaching) or redshift (receding). The change in the observed wavelength offers insight into the object's relative velocity.
- The Doppler Effect is instrumental in astronomy for detecting and interpreting a vast array of cosmic motions and determining velocities.
- Astronomers use it to measure the speeds of galaxies, track stars, and even detect planets around other stars.
Wavelength Shift
This shift in wavelength allows us to detect and quantify the motion of distant celestial objects.
- It plays a critical role in astrophysical measurements, including the rate of expansion of the universe and understanding star and galaxy dynamics.
- Wavelength shifts beyond color changes also reveal temperature changes and the composition of stars and planets.